Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual page 427

Winter driving
It is important to check the vehicle before driving
in cold/snowy conditions to make sure it can be
driven safely.
Before the cold season arrives:
• Make sure the engine coolant contains 50%
antifreeze. This mixture helps protect the
engine from frost erosion down to
approx. -35 °C (-31 °F). Do not mix different
types of antifreeze as this could pose a
health risk.
• Keep the fuel tank well filled to prevent con-
densation from forming.
• Check the viscosity of the engine oil. Oil with
low viscosity (thinner oil) improves cold-
weather starting and reduces fuel consump-
tion when driving with a cold engine.
CAUTION
Low-viscosity oil should not be used with hard
driving or in hot weather.
• Check the condition and charge level of the
start battery. Cold weather places greater
demands on the start battery and reduces its
capacity.
• Use washer fluid containing antifreeze to
help prevent ice from forming in the washer
fluid reservoir.
Slippery driving conditions
For optimal traction and roadholding, Volvo rec-
ommends using snow tires on all wheels when-
ever there is a risk of snow or ice on the road.
NOTE
Certain countries require use of winter tires
by law. Not all countries permit the use of
studded tires.
Practice driving on slippery surfaces under con-
trolled conditions to learn how the vehicle reacts.
Related information
• Snow tires (p. 533)
• Snow chains (p. 534)
• Braking on salted roads (p. 396)
• Braking on wet roads (p. 396)
• Filling washer fluid (p. 620)
• Start battery (p. 585)
• Replacing windshield wiper blades (p. 618)
• Changing rear window wipers (p. 617)
• Refilling coolant (p. 577)
STARTING AND DRIVING
Driving through standing water
It may be necessary to drive the vehicle through
standing water, e.g. deep puddles or flooding on
the road. This must be done with great caution.
The vehicle can be driven through water up to a
depth of 45 cm (17 in) at no more than walking
speed. Be particularly careful when driving
through flowing water.
When driving through standing water, drive slowly
and do not stop the vehicle. When you have
passed the water, press lightly on the brake pedal
and check that the brakes are functioning prop-
erly. Water, mud, slush, etc. can make the brake
linings slippery, resulting in delayed braking
effect.
• If the vehicle is equipped with contacts for an
electric heater or trailer coupling, clean these
after driving in water or mud.
• Do not allow the vehicle to stand in water up
to the sills any longer than absolutely neces-
sary. This could result in electrical malfunc-
tions.
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